There are several reasons a person may choose to build an AR rather than just buying a completed one. The most notable of which is to save money. Even when consumers buy a completed AR, they are likely to modify it or add custom parts
to make it uniquely theirs. For enthusiasts like this, building their own rifle
means taking pride and ownership of something that has truly been created as an only piece. There are so many different component pieces out on the market now, and you can customize yours to make it one of a kind. You can learn a lot from a build. You will learn the laws, the mechanics, the functions, and you will learn a little about yourself and what is important to you. If you buy the pieces separately, you can be sure that you are building the gun exactly how you want it.

Anderson AR-15 Complete Lower Receiver

The essential part of building your own AR is the firearm itself. I am not referring to the total completed firearm; I'm talking about the lower receiver.
There are a lot of terms out there associated with lower receivers. It can be confusing to some, so let's sort it all out before you begin your build. Check out Clint's video explaining the difference between stripped, complete, and 80% lower receivers!
 

COMPLETED LOWERS

A short definition is that a completed lower receiver contains operating parts of the firing mechanism. If you purchase a completed lower for your build, it has been pre-built with a lower parts kit and buffer assembly already installed. A good example of this would be a Fostech LITE Complete Lower Receiver
. There is one crucial thing to understand when purchasing a completed lower for your AR build. The finished lower IS itself a firearm. The lower receiver is the only part of an AR considered to be a firearm. It is the part of the frame that is serialized. Since the completed lower receiver is regarded as an actual firearm, it is regulated by both state and federal laws. When purchasing a finished lower, the customer must go through all of the paperwork, background check, and FFLs, just like you do when buying a regular firearm.

Fostech LITE Complete AR-15 Rifle Lower

STRIPPED LOWERS

Stripped lowers are fundamentally no different than completed lowers in one sense. Stripped lowers are also firearms and are considered to be 100% lower receivers. Since stripped lowers are also considered firearms, they are subject to all of the same paperwork, background check, and FFLs as completed lowers. A stripped lower does not contain a lower parts kit, though. A good example would be a Noreen Firearms Billet Stripped Receiver.
Without a lower parts kit, you have the freedom to pick and choose every component that goes inside of the lower receiver to make it functional. Stripped lowers are usually less expensive than completed lowers.

Noreen Firearms Billet Stripped Lower Receiver

80% LOWERS

This is not a statutory term. ATF does not recognize the term 80% LOWER. It is, however, a term that people in firearms communities use to refer to partially completed receivers. An 80% lower
is simply an unfinished receiver that has not yet reached the stage of manufacturing that meets the definition of a firearm, frame or receiver. Some enthusiasts call them blanks, bricks, or even paperweights. So why would you choose this useless piece of metal for your firearm build over a stripped or completed lower? Well, folks, this is the down and dirty of an AR build! An 80% lower allows the consumer to develop their AR from the ground up. This process is not complicated, but it does require some machining to be completed by anyone who purchases this unfinished receiver. An 80% lower becomes a completed lower receiver by milling out the fire control pocket. By choosing an 80% lower for your build, though, you will have the unique opportunity to know your firearm inside and out when the entire build is complete. One of the benefits that you gain from the purchase of an 80% lower is the knowledge about your firearms functionality. Another advantage is personally knowing your components, if one needs to be replaced, not to mention the sheer pride that you will have when using your firearm or just showing it off to other enthusiasts. But the very best part about purchasing an 80% lower is that because it is not considered to be a firearm at all, it can be delivered directly to your front door after you pay for your order. No paperwork, no background check, no FFLs, and no transfer fees. 80% lowers are also cheaper than other lower receivers.

Anderson 80% Lower Receiver - No FFL Required

That's the skinny on lower receivers. A firearm build is both cost-saving and rewarding. All that you need is a little bit of patience and some time. Receivers and receiver parts are not very expensive, and with the times that we are in, you should take advantage of their availability and squirrel away a few. Ready to start your build? Shop All Of Our 80% Lowers
, Stripped Lowers
, and Completed Lowers
. We also have a wide selection of various accessories
so happy shopping!